Charlie Nicholas suggests reason why Mesut Ozil is not playing for Arsenal

Former Arsenal star Charlie Nicholas has suggested that Mesut Ozil has not been training hard enough and that may have contributed towards his recent absence from the matchday squad for the Gunners.

The German has managed just two appearances for the north London side since the start of the season and he has been absent for the past four games across all competitions.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Nicholas said that Ozil may not be putting sufficient effort in training and that is perhaps the reason behind Unai Emery's decision to snub the playmaker.

Still, the Gunners legend believes the 31-year-old won't be parting ways with the club in the near future and he would personally play him for the forthcoming Europa League game against Vitoria.

"Will he throw Mesut Ozil into this situation? I think Unai Emery knows Ozil is not training hard enough, so that is why he is not putting him in the team. He is still there so I would play him," he told.

Arsenal suffered a rather disappointing 1-0 defeat to Sheffield United in the Premier League on Monday night. With the outcome, the Gunners are now two points behind the top four.